John Robert Newkirk, Jr.

John Robert “Bob” Newkirk Jr, son of the late John Robert Newkirk Sr and the late Margret (LaForge) Newkirk and passed away surrounded by his family on Sunday September 1st . Born May 23 rd 1931 in Dover, NJ, although legally, his birthday was May 27 th 1931 because it took his grandmother 5 days to get to the records office. He spent most of his life in Wharton, though he did move to South Carolina for a few years before returning to NJ in 1999, living in the surrounding area of Wharton, Mansfield, Easton PA, before settling in Mt. Arlington with his wife Pat, son, Joe, and three grandchildren Lara, Blace, and Brielle.

Bob, the man of many names (Bobby, Bob, Pop, Pop-Pop, Newk, Dr. Bobby John, Old Man and so many more), was a proud member of the United States Marine Corps after enlisting with his brother and childhood friend, for 3 years before his medical discharge. After his discharge he became a civilian employee at Picatinny Arsenal for 30+ years, and was an active lifetime member of Wharton’s volunteer first aid squad for 35+ years, a police officer for the town of Wharton, and became one of the first EMTs for the state of New Jersey.

After retiring from Picatinny Arsenal in 1985 Bob spent many years with the American Red Cross volunteering his time and extensive expertise in civil service travelling across the country responding and supporting with the disaster relief. Additionally he coordinated and developed the recycling program in the Morris County MUA.

Bob spent most of his of time with his wife and his grandchildren, ensuring that he was at every softball game, every musical and show, and every cheer event. He thoroughly enjoyed going to breakfast at Rosies, taking trips with the Mt. Arlington Senior Citizens, and seeing shows on Broadway with his grandkids, friends and family.

He is predeceased by his wife of 57 years Pat, his brother Bill and sister Patti Hastie.

He is survived by sons John (and family) of Georgia, Joseph of Mt. Arlington, Kevin and his wife Brenda of Wharton, his brother Raymond (Dee) of Rockaway and Sandi (Marty) Galax VA and by his beloved grandchildren; John R, III (Tracey) of Oregon, Jessica of Georgia, Lara Redcay (Shawn) of Parkesburg PA, Blace (Rosemary) of Amsterdam NL, Brielle (David) of Mt. Arlington, three great grandsons, and several nieces and nephews.

Viewing will be Thursday September 5th 2024 from 4pm – 7pm at Bermingham Funeral Home, 216 S. Main St. Wharton NJ 07885.  Military Honors will be rendered by the US Marines at 7pm before paying final respects.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.

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